Ecuador has been among the many countries visited for regular traveling and medical tourism. Some even decide to retire in the country. But just like in visiting any country, a traveler should know about Ecuador visas.
Non-Immigrant Visa 12-X
Non-immigrant visa refers to Ecuador visas granted to individuals staying in the country temporarily. An individual can stay for up to 90 days by getting an automatic visa. Also known as Visa 12-X, this visa type has minimal requirements, which means people can get them easily. Main requirements are a passport, return ticket, and proof of income. The passport should be valid for more than six months upon visiting the country. A return ticket for land, sea, or air travel should be presented as well.
Visa 12-X holders are not allowed to find work in the country. Hence, they should have proof of income to support their expenses in Ecuador. Some individuals, however, must visit the Consulate of Ecuador in their own countries to know more about this visa prior to traveling to Ecuador.
Non-Immigrants Staying More than 90 Days
Individuals planning to stay in the country for more than 90 days can still get Ecuador visas, but they need to pass more requirements. Aside from a passport and return ticket, applicants must submit police certificates and criminal records from their home countries, a medical certificate, an application form, two photographs, and a valid US visa or green card for US applicants.
Other Visa Types
Aside from these visa types, other types are also available for students, entrepreneurs, religious group members, volunteers, and cultural exchange people. All these visas are available on the embassy’s website. Some individuals wishing to stay for up to 180 days require a different visa to ensure they will stay in the country legally.
Due to the visa differences, their requirements also vary. Others may show different proofs or documents. For instance, retired individuals wishing to reside in the country as an immigrant should show different documents with pensions as part of the application process. Individuals who will be a member of the country’s political or technical team must show proof of their expertise.
Visa Application Fee and Validity
Application for Ecuador visas can be free of charge while others cost around $50 to $90. However, some applicants may have different prices depending on their country of origin. The good thing about specific visas is they come in different validity periods, with some reaching up to two years and renewable. This is ideal for those applying for a visa and wishing to return in the future.
Overstaying
Due to some unforeseen circumstances, some visitors find themselves overstaying in Ecuador. They need to have their passport signed or stamped before leaving the country. This is to make sure they have exited appropriately.
Applying for an Ecuador visa is easy with the right information. If you will be applying for medical tourism through Ecuador Visas, inquire first about the number of days you need to stay in the country then apply for the right passport and double-check for the needed requirements.
*Originally published on Ecuador Visas January 08, 2015
